Ms Emma Martina Luigia Morano of Vercelli, Italy was born 117 years year ago today, on 29 November 1899.

Guinness World Records confirmed Emma as the Oldest person living in May, after reviewing research conducted by the Gerontology Research Group.

She is believed to be the last person living who was born in the 19th century.

Today Ms Morano is celebrating her birthday in her flat – a home she hasn’t left for years and receives 24-hour care.

Speaking of Emma's achievement, Marco Frigatti, Head of Records for GWR, said:

“The oldest living person record category continues to capture the world’s collective imagination. Ms Morano has experienced things first hand that will soon be consigned to memory, and the record books. She can teach us all a lesson of the value of a life well lived.”